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After sitting out last spring, the (usually) bi-annual District Sample Sale is finally on its way back. Tickets went on sale Wednesday, and DSS co-founder Jayne Sandman says VIP admissions are going fast -- so plan accordingly if you want to live large.

On Sept. 11, dozens of local, independently owned boutiques and vendors will meet up to offer shoes, clothes and accessories at deep discounts. Last season's wear will be offered at up to 90 percent off -- and many shops will also offer some nice deals (around 15-30 percent off) on a few current-season items.

Participating boutiques include Caramel, Ginger, Lettie Gooch, Luna, Sassanova and Urban Chic. But it's not just about a flurry of feverishly trying on clothes in a makeshift changing booth while you pray those binder clips holding a curtain don't give way (OK, maybe that's just us) -- the event makes a night of it with cocktails, appetizers and desserts from local restos, including Black & Orange, Martin's Tavern, Rosa Mexicano and Georgetown Cupcake. You'll also find a silent auction and raffle, and mini makeovers.

General admission tickets are $40, with VIP tickets going for $100. VIP ticket-holders get in an hour early, at 5:30 p.m., and at the end of the night they'll score a sweet goodie bag.

Seen at the District Sample Sale

Sure, you may be asking yourself whether paying to go shopping is worth it -- but first consider the food, which is almost unfailingly fabulous. Then consider the fact that the DSS donates 100 percent of its proceeds to charity. This year's beneficiary is the Sitar Arts Center for Kids, which offers arts education for kids coming from low-income households.

The sale is in a new location this year, at 5300 Wisconsin Ave. NW -- appropriately enough in the former Filene's Basement space. Yep, that spot is just destined for deals.